Newell yesterday publicly apologised to Amy Rayner, the woman referee's assistant, he criticised following Luton's 3-2 home defeat against QPR on Saturday.

But the board last night labelled his comments "sexist" and Newell will have to explain his actions today, after which Luton will decide on his future. A statement from the club said: "The club disassociates itself totally from the sexist comments made by him, they have no place in this club and are completely unacceptable.

"Representatives of the board will be meeting the manager as a matter of urgency to ask him to explain his comments and other criticisms."